1

Forensic Unit Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Forensic Unit information

What does a forensics unit do?

A forensics unit investigates crimes by collecting, analyzing, and preserving physical evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, and digital data. They often work in laboratories or crime scenes and use specialized tools and techniques to support criminal investigations and court cases.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by professionals working in a forensic unit?

Professionals in a forensic unit often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, adhering to strict evidence handling protocols, and maintaining objectivity under pressure. The work can be emotionally demanding, particularly when dealing with sensitive or graphic crime scene materials. Additionally, collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams is crucial, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to clearly explain technical findings in both written reports and courtroom testimony.

What is the highest paying forensic job?

The highest paying forensic jobs are typically forensic pathologists and forensic odontologists, with forensic pathologists earning the highest salaries due to their medical training and responsibilities in conducting autopsies and determining causes of death. These roles often require medical degrees, specialized training, and certification, and they tend to be located in medical examiner offices or hospitals. Salaries can exceed $200,000 annually depending on experience and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Forensic Unit, and why are they important?

Working in a Forensic Unit requires a solid background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, forensic analysis software, and chain-of-custody systems is crucial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills help professionals accurately process evidence and present findings. These competencies ensure the integrity of investigations and contribute to the fair administration of justice.

Is it easy to get hired as a CSI?

Getting hired as a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) typically requires a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field, along with relevant experience or training. Competition can be high, and candidates often need to pass background checks, physical assessments, and sometimes certification exams. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of evidence collection tools, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments are important for success in the role.

What is a Forensic Unit?

A Forensic Unit is a specialized department within law enforcement or criminal justice agencies responsible for the collection, preservation, and analysis of physical evidence from crime scenes. The team typically includes forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, and technicians who use scientific methods to help solve crimes. Their work supports investigations by providing objective, scientific findings that can be used in court. Forensic Units may analyze fingerprints, DNA, drugs, trace evidence, and more. Their findings can play a crucial role in identifying suspects, exonerating the innocent, and securing convictions.

What is the difference between Forensic Unit vs Forensic Technician?

AspectForensic UnitForensic Technician
CredentialsForensic science degree, certifications in crime scene analysisForensic science or criminal justice degree, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, crime scenes, hospitalsCrime scenes, laboratories, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, government agencies, crime labsLaw enforcement, crime labs, forensic laboratories
Job FocusOverseeing forensic investigations, managing teamsCollecting evidence, analyzing samples, supporting investigations

The Forensic Unit typically involves overseeing forensic investigations and managing teams, requiring advanced credentials. In contrast, Forensic Technicians focus on evidence collection and analysis, often with similar educational backgrounds but less managerial responsibility. Both roles are essential in forensic science and often work closely within law enforcement and crime labs.

What kind of jobs are in forensics?

Jobs in forensics include forensic scientists, crime scene investigators, forensic technicians, and laboratory analysts. These roles involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting physical evidence, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence handling, and certification in forensic science or related fields.
Infographic showing various Forensic Unit job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Forensic Scientist III OR Forensic Scientist II

Forensic Scientist III OR Forensic Scientist II

Broward County Sheriff's Office

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$72K - $129K/yr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Broward County Sheriff's Office rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 35 rated police


Job description

Minimum Requirements Current vacancy is for Forensic Scientist III. Candidates who meet the qualifications for a Forensic Scientist II may also be considered if the position is not filled after processing all of the Forensic Scientist III candidates. The vacancy exists within the Crime Lab, specifically in the Latent Print Unit.

ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPTS Unofficial college transcripts are required at the time of application and must be attached to your on-line application. Applications cannot be submitted without attached transcripts. Forensic Scientist III Requirements: Salary: $79,674.92 - $129,781.54 Must be a United States Citizen at time of application

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in the natural or physical sciences, forensic science, criminalistics, or closely related field. Master's degree preferred. Additional coursework may be necessary.

Minimum three (3) years at the Forensic Scientist II level; or five (5) years journey level experience in latent print examination with exposure to the administrative aspects of the work. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. Such must be clearly demonstrated on the application for consideration.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Must possess and maintain certification by the governing board of the forensic discipline e.g., International Association for Identification (IAI). Successful completion of the ANAB Internal Auditor Training Course, or ANAB Assessor Training Course for Testing Laboratories or equivalent as determined by the Crime Lab Director. Successful completion of science-related coursework; per the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC), or NIST equivalent, to include General Biology and Advanced Latent Print Comparison Courses

Knowledge and experience of principles, methods and current techniques utilized in the forensic analysis of latent print evidence is required. Forensic Scientist II Requirements: Salary: $72,301.92 - $118,898.75 Must be a United States Citizen at time of application. Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in the natural or physical sciences, forensic science, or closely related field; Additional coursework may be necessary

Successful completion of an in-house training program as a Forensic Scientist I, as determined by Crime Lab Command, that incorporates progressively responsible journey level experience in area of assignment; or a minimum of two (2) years journey level experience in latent print examination, with exposure to the administrative aspects of the work. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. Such must be clearly demonstrated on the application for consideration.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Successful completion of science-related coursework; per the Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC), or NIST equivalent, to include General Biology and basic Fingerprint Classification and Comparison Courses or equivalent. Knowledge and experience of principles, methods and current techniques utilized in the forensic examination of latent print evidence is required. Nature of Work Forensic Scientist III: Under administrative direction, the purpose of the position is to prepare and analyze chemical and evidentiary samples in criminal identification and investigations in the Crime Laboratory of the Broward Sheriff's Office.

As an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory employees in this position must adhere to accreditation standards encompassing extensive case documentation, validation of procedures, technical and administrative review of reports and case notes, etc. In addition, employees are required to participate in external proficiency testing, courtroom testimony monitoring, continued technical training, quality audits, and accreditation inspections by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), or other accrediting bodies. Employees function in a senior level status performing advanced laboratory techniques for the most complex cases.

Position exercises considerable initiative and independent judgment in the conduct of duties, referring unique or unusual, situations to the Crime Lab Technical Leader/Crime Lab Unit Manager for review and advisement. Employees in this classification may perform lead worker duties within the area of assignment under the supervision of the Crime Lab Unit Manager. Position is responsible for the formal reporting of and testifying to the findings of such analysis.

Performs related work as directed. Forensic Scientist II: Under administrative direction, the purpose of the position is to prepare and analyze chemical and evidentiary samples in criminal identification and investigations in the Crime Laboratory of the Broward Sheriff's Office. As an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, employees in this position must adhere to accreditation standards encompassing extensive case documentation, validation of procedures, technical and administrative review of reports and case notes, etc.

In addition, employees are required to participate in external proficiency testing, courtroom testimony monitoring, continued technical training, quality audits, and accreditation inspections by ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), or other accrediting bodies. Employees function in a journey level status performing moderately complex casework under the supervision of the Crime Lab Unit Manager. Position is responsible for the formal reporting of and testifying to the findings of such analysis.

Performs related work as directed. Essential Functions/Physical Requirements Forensic Scientist III: The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class.

The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position. Involves the examination of latent print evidence; performing all work related to the analysis, comparison and evaluation of latent prints recovered from crime scenes. Conducts preliminary testing and preparation of evidence for analysis in one or more assigned areas.

Participates in the preparation of unit equipment and materials used for testing and analytical tasks. Examines materials collected for adherence to established procedures concerning collection and identification of chemical and evidentiary samples. Conducts laboratory examinations utilizing procedures applicable to the analytical task(s) assigned.

Isolates, collects, and analyzes evidentiary items as applicable. Generates data from laboratory examination and testing; reviews such for the purpose of determining findings; compiles such for reporting purposes and judicial process as applicable. Conducts administrative and/or technical review of casework.

Testifies to analytical results in depositions and court. Performs validations, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting of specialized unit equipment, to include performance checks, calibration, and sterilization procedures. Maintains current knowledge of trends and developments in the field through training, workshops, seminars, science periodicals, and other information sources; participates in annual proficiency examinations.

Provides training, guidance, and assistance to other unit personnel in procedures, methods, and unit standards. May assist in conducting internal audits within the Crime Laboratory as directed. May act in the Crime Lab Technical Leader's or Crime Lab Unit Manager's absence as directed.

Performs related duties as directed. Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (up to 25 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation.

Tasks are performed in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment where proper provisions are in place in terms of employee security and protection. Due to the nature and location of the work environment, tasks include potential for intermittent exposure to disagreeable elements consistent with routine conditions in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment, e.g., toxic agents, pathogens, chemicals, organic/inorganic agents. Spends at least 65% of time performing duties that involve the collection, examination, preservation, documentation, preparation, or analysis of human tissues or fluids or physical evidence having potential biological, chemical, or radiological hazard or contamination, or use chemicals, processes, or materials that may have carcinogenic or health-damaging properties in the analysis of evidence

Broward Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Broward Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Forensic Scientist II: Involves the examination of latent print evidence; performing all work related to the analysis, comparison and evaluation of latten prints recovered from crime scenes.

The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.

Conducts preliminary testing and preparation of evidence for analysis in one or more assigned areas. Participates in the preparation of unit equipment and materials used for testing and analytical tasks. Examines materials collected for adherence to established procedures concerning collection and identification of chemical and evidentiary samples.

Conducts laboratory examinations utilizing procedures applicable to the analytical task(s) assigned. Isolates, collects, and analyzes evidentiary items as applicable. Generates data from laboratory examination and testing; reviews such for the purpose of determining findings; compiles such for reporting purposes and judicial process as applicable.

Conducts administrative and/or technical review of casework. Testifies to analytical results in depositions and court. Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting of specialized unit equipment, to include performance checks, calibration, and sterilization procedures.

Maintains current knowledge of trends and developments in the field through training, workshops, seminars, science periodicals, and other information sources; participates in annual proficiency examinations. May provide training, guidance, and assistance to other unit personnel in procedures, methods, and unit standards. Performs related duties as directed.

Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (up to 25 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation. Tasks are performed in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment where proper provisions are in place in terms of employee security and protection.

Due to the nature and location of the work environment, tasks include potential for intermittent exposure to disagreeable elements consistent with routine conditions in a laboratory/forensics analysis environment, e.g., toxic agents, pathogens, chemicals, organic/inorganic agents. Spends at least 65% of time performing duties that involve the collection, examination, preservation, documentation, preparation, or analysis of human tissues or fluids or physical evidence having potential biological, chemical or radiological hazard or contamination, or use chemicals, processes, or materials that may have carcinogenic or health-damaging properties in the analysis of evidence. Broward Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Broward Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Recruitment Information Applicants who qualify will be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to evaluation of training and experience; written test; computer based test; interview; polygraph examination; psychological evaluation; employment record, fingerprint and background check; medical examination; and drug screen. The expected duration of the selection process varies by position and could last 10 to 12 weeks.

Reapplication will be determined on a case-by-case basis. BSO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. Veterans' preference per Florida law.

If you encounter issues with your application and need technical assistance, please contact Applicant Support (GovernmentJobs.com) from 9 am to 9 pm EST, Monday - Friday. You can reach them by phone at 855-524-5627 or email support@governmentjobs.com. Once you successfully submit your application, you will receive a confirmation e-mail

If you do not receive this e-mail, please contact Applicant Support for any inquiries.


What Broward County Sheriff's Office employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom